bp Oman, Outward Bound Launch Wa’ed Program

The not-for-profit educational foundation Outward Bound Oman, in partnership with bp Oman, the Omani branch of oil giant British Petroleum (bp), and in collaboration with the government-led Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Development Authority, has launched the Wa’ed Program to support the development and continuity of Omani startups in the fields of technology and innovation. 

The program targets 100 Omani entrepreneurs from startup ventures and student companies, offering a three-phase program that combines indoor and outdoor training sessions. Each phase focuses on building practical skills in leadership, communication, teamwork, collaboration, innovation, and environmental responsibility. The program is fully funded by bp Oman.

In a statement, Mohamed Al Zadjali, Acting Executive Director at Outward Bound Oman, said, "Our partnership in the Wa’ed program reflects the importance of collaboration between government sector, private sector, and civil society, unifying efforts to serve the entrepreneurship sector, which is a key component of the Sustainable Development Goals in the Sultanate of Oman." 

Ibrahim Al Hinai, Social Investment Manager at bp Oman, Kuwait, and Qatar, commented, "Empowering local capabilities is a key focus at bp Oman, and supporting Omani startups' growth plays a crucial role in this. This program will work with various promising Omani startups, allowing them to expand, develop, and grow, which will further enhance Oman’s economy and contribute to building a stronger community." 

Qais Al Tobi, Vice-President of Finance and Investment at the SME Development Authority and General Supervisor of the Rising Omani Startups Program, added, “The Wa’ed program represents a practical model of integration between government entities, the private sector, and civil society to support the entrepreneurship and startup ecosystem in the Sultanate of Oman. It reflects our commitment, through The Rising Omani Startups Program, to empowering Omani entrepreneurs and building their leadership and managerial capacities. We firmly believe that enhancing youth skills directly contributes to creating startups capable of competing both locally and globally, in alignment with the aspirations of Oman Vision 2040.” 

Eligible applicants must be Omani nationals who are entrepreneurs or part of student-run companies operating in the fields of technology and innovation. They must also commit to completing all three phases of the program. Priority will be given to those who are registered with the SME Development Authority.

 In addition to gaining entrepreneurial skills and meeting the program’s objectives, participants will receive a graduation certificate and take part in a formal ceremony. They will also have opportunities to meet with experts and high-profile mentors during the program. Participants will benefit from special rates on future use of Outward Bound Oman’s training facilities. 

Each participant will join one group and complete three program levels between June and October 2025. Level 1, titled “Communication Compass” and will be held in Muscat, is an eight-hour workshop that focuses on effective communication and team dynamics, and features team-building exercises to strengthen collaboration and trust, along with role-playing scenarios aimed at enhancing communication skills.

Level 2, “Startup Leadership Summit,” is a three-day outdoor experience at Jabal Akhdar. This level centers on leadership development through outdoor challenges, leadership workshops, and discussions on Oman Vision 2040 and environmental responsibility. Participants will develop key leadership skills, explore different leadership styles, and take initiative in their roles.

Level 3, “Pathways to Success,” is a five-day outdoor program at Jabal Akhdar and includes extended wilderness expeditions, team-based problem-solving activities, and expert-led workshops focused on innovation and technology.

Interested candidates can submit their applications through this link. 

bp has operated in Oman’s upstream oil and gas sector since 2007. Since 2014, its social investment programs have focused on supporting national development, promoting economic diversification, and creating job opportunities. Over this period, bp Oman has carried out more than 150 initiatives that have benefited over 202,000 people. 

Outward Bound Oman was established by ministerial decision and is part of the global Outward Bound network, which began in Wales in 1941. It has operated in Oman since 2009, providing training to over 16,000 people, including school students, young job seekers, and employees from public and private institutions. The foundation uses outdoor environments to deliver structured programs aimed at building work and life skills. 

Oman was the first Arabic-speaking country to establish an Outward Bound operation. The organization supports national human capital development goals under Vision 2040 through various training programs, including Skills for Life and Next Generation, along with tailored courses for companies and institutions.